This is the reason you can’t stop touching your own boobs, according to scientists

It’s one of the unspoken characteristics of being a woman: touching breasts. Your own body, in the privacy of your own home.

If you’ve ever been drawn to subconsciously cupping your own bust, you may have wondered about doing it.

According to scientists, this particular act of self-love serves an intriguing evolutionary purpose.

When the breasts are touched, the pituitary gland in the brain releases a flood of chemicals.

These hormones are known to induce feelings of calm and can protect against depression.

It contains oxytocin – the so-called ‘love hormone’ that is also pumped out during hugs, according to clinical psychologist Meghan Jablonski, who spoke to Cosmopolitan.

“If you’re feeling anxious, nervous, or a little scared, give them a squeeze,” Cosmo advises in a video posted by the site.

Brain research has shown that there is an increase in the amount of oxytocin when both men and women touch their own breasts, but also those of others.

Cupping your own breasts not only releases feel-good hormones in the brain, but is also a particularly comfortable position for relaxed hands and fingers

Plus-size model Tess Holliday showed off her bust at New York Fashion Week 2020

But speaking to Cosmopoliton, behavioral experts say that feel-good hormones are not the only driver of this habit.

Body language specialist Blanca Cobb said that when we are relaxed, our fingers and palms are naturally curved, meaning a hand on the chest is particularly comfortable.

Experts say oxytocin is also released in men’s brains when they get into the habit of resting their hands on their genitals.

But some psychologists say this behavior can also be a way to assert masculinity.

‘The penis is a strong symbol of masculinity, and all men want that department to work well,” integrative psychotherapist Jo Ryder told Vice.

‘Putting your hand on your penis is stubborn, it shows confidence in your masculinity.’